Coming to terms with sight loss

Abstract

A study using both qualitative and quantitative methods was undertaken to examine the impact of the Royal National Institute of Blind People (RNIB) Finding Your Feet (FYF) programmes on participants. A key component of the study involved looking at any impact attendance may have had on the Quality of Life (QoL) of those taking part. The Birmingham Assessment of Low Vision Focus QoL Questionnaire was used to record data relating to QoL. Sixteen participants completed the questionnaire both before and after their attendance on the programme. Data was analysed alongside transcripts from 17 interviews conducted with participants and observation notes of three separate programmes. Questionnaire results highlighted clear similarities between data gathered for this study and that of other studies, and suggest considerable commonality of experience in people with visual impairment. Qualitative data demonstrate the positive contribution programmes such as FYF can make to the well-being and QoL of participants.

Keywords

peer support quality of life visual impairment

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References

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